This Move Improves the Fuel Economy of the Tough-Lux Off-Roader

Remember our rave reviews regarding the LR4's terrific 375-hp, 375-lb-ft naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V-8 and six-speed automatic? Well, anyone hoping to buy an LR4 with that engine had better hurry, because 2013 is its last year. Replacing it for 2014 is a supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 that puts out 340 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic. This is the same engine that's under the hood of the new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport. Both power and torque are down, but the upside is that fuel economy is sure to improve. When Land Rover made a similar move with the Range Rover, fuel economy went from 14 mpg city/20 highway to 17/23. That was with a lot of other changes, including weight reduction and other significant improvements. Considering the LR4's current fuel economy is 12 mpg city/17 mpg on the highway, this engine will make a big difference. The LR4 will now also have Intelligent Stop-Start to help with fuel efficiency.

Among the other changes are a new standard 4WD system that uses a lighter single-speed transfer case. (From what we can tell, this is similar to all-wheel drive.) But the 4WD system that uses a two-speed transfer case is still available, bundled in with an optional Heavy Duty Package that includes an active locking rear differential and a full-size spare tire.

In addition, front-end styling has been refreshed, there is a new LED headlight design, and new options include Meridian audio, Closing Vehicle Sensing, and Reverse Traffic Detection. All LR4s come with blind-spot monitoring, new wheel designs, and exterior paint colors. Pricing starts at $50,595 (LR4), $55,495 (HSE), and $60,795 (HSE LUX).